Man United have been active in the transfer market this summer and their latest academy recruit has been unveiled.
Emsden-James has signed from Southampton.(Image: Manchester United)
Harley Emsden-James has completed his transfer to Manchester United from Southampton.
Emsden-James, 16, is highly regarded and has swapped St. Mary’s Stadium for Old Trafford.
Southampton will receive compensation and Jason Wilcox played an important role in the deal. Wilcox worked for Southampton for nine months before his arrival in Manchester and he is familiar with Emsden-James.
Emsden-James shared photos of his unveiling, with the caption: “Proud and grateful to sign for United. A dream come true and the start of an exciting new chapter. Can’t wait to get started.”
The youngster was pictured with a United shirt during his signing ceremony in the Jimmy Murphy Building.
Emsden-James has travelled to Northern Ireland this week with the Under-16 squad, who are competing for the SuperCupNI.
David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Wayne Rooney and Marcus Rashford have played for United in the SuperCupNI, a prestigious youth tournament held each summer.
Emsden-James is a natural centre-back and he is expected to predominantly play for the Under-18s this season, who are now managed by former United midfielder Darren Fletcher.
Fletcher was previously reluctant to take an academy role due to his twin sons, Jack and Tyler, being in the system, but they have now progressed beyond Under-18 level.
The U18s will begin their league campaign against Everton in Merseyside on August 16.
Emsden-James only celebrated his 16th birthday in March but has been tipped for a bright future.
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